Chatham County will be well represented at the 2023 Dixie Softball World Series.
Along with the West Chatham 15U All-Stars — who made the 2023 Dixie Youth Softball Belles (15U) World Series — the West Chatham 10U All-Stars booked their ticket to the 2023 Angels X-Play (10U) World Series.
Unlike the 15U All-Stars, the 10U All-Stars will play their tournament in Fairview, Tenn. West Chatham earned its bid into the World Series after winning the 2023 North Carolina Dixie Youth Angels X-Play state tournament in Winnabow back on July 8-12.
The 10U All-Stars went 5-1 during the tournament. Their only loss came to South Stanly, who they eventually bested, 6-5, in the championship game.
“The team is made up of an outstanding group of young girls,” said head coach Lin Andrew. “They not only are good athletes, but they are good kids. Their excitement when making a big play, crossing home plate, or seeing one of their teammates make a contribution to the team is evident. They are state champions but more importantly, they are 9 and 10 year old girls who are having fun, learning about the game, and learning how to show good sportsmanship.”
The 10U All-Stars are also looking for donations to help fund their travels to Tennessee for the World Series. They have a GoFundMe page set up with a goal of $20,000. These donations will go toward travel expenses for players and their families. At the time this story was written, a total of $2,851 had been raised.
This is the second time in three years the West Chatham 10U All-Stars have made the Dixie World Series. Back in 2021, the 10U team made the big tournament and ended up finishing third overall.
Andrews said it has been fun watching the effects playing a team sport has had on his players.
“Sports have such a positive impact on not only the physical health, but also the mental and emotional well-being of kids,” he said. “It’s great to see them growing as players and growing as individuals. Our local recreation departments as well as our city and county programs continue to positively impact the children in our community.”